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Lemon Ginger Tea Recipe: The Ultimate Immunity Booster

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When the seasons change and the throat starts to tickle, this is the first line of defense. Lemon Ginger Tea is a classic for a reason: the Gingerols in the root act as a powerful anti-inflammatory, while the fresh lemon provides a blast of Vitamin C.

The secret to a truly medicinal cup is to boil the ginger (decoction) to extract the heat, but only add the lemon and honey at the end. Boiling lemon kills the Vitamin C, and boiling honey destroys its antimicrobial enzymes. Follow this method for maximum potency.

A glass mug of hot lemon ginger tea with fresh slices and a honey dipper.
Prep Time5 mins
Cook Time10 mins
Servings2 Cups

Ingredients

  • 3-inch piece Fresh Ginger Root (Do not use powder)
  • 2 cups Water
  • 1/2 Lemon (Freshly squeezed, never bottled)
  • 1 tbsp Honey (Manuka or raw local honey is best)
  • Optional: 1 pinch Turmeric + Black Pepper (For extra inflammation fighting)
Nutrition per serving:
Calories: 65
Fat: 0g
Sugar: 17g
Protein: 0g

Instructions

1
Prep the Ginger: Wash the ginger root well. You do not need to peel it if it's organic. Slice it into thin coins. Slicing exposes more surface area than chopping, making it easier to strain later.
2
The Decoction: Place the ginger slices and cold water in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then turn the heat down to low. Simmer gently for 10 minutes. This extracts the spicy gingerols.
3
Strain: Remove from heat and pour the liquid through a sieve into your favorite mug. Discard the ginger slices (or save them for a second, weaker brew).
4
Cool Slightly: Let the tea sit for 2-3 minutes. If the water is boiling (100°C), it will destroy the Vitamin C in the lemon and the beneficial enzymes in the honey.
5
Mix: Squeeze in the fresh lemon juice and stir in the honey until dissolved. Drink while warm.

Too lazy to slice ginger?

We get it—when you're sick, slicing root vegetables is a chore. If you need a quick fix, we've reviewed the best ginger tea bags that actually contain high-potency ginger oils. See our Review: Best Teas for Sore Throats or check out The Best Ginger Teas for Digestion.